Fulani herders from Benue and Nasarawa States have called on the Federal Government to establish an independent fact-finding panel to investigate the root and immediate causes of recurring killings in the North Central region, allegedly linked to suspected herdsmen.
The appeal was made by the National President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Baba Othman Ngelzarma, during a joint meeting of herder leaders from both states held in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
The call follows renewed violence in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where lives were lost and property destroyed in attacks reportedly carried out by suspected herders.
The incident has increased tensions in several border communities.
In response, MACBAN leaders convened in Lafia to seek peaceful solutions and promote dialogue, emphasizing the human and economic toll of ongoing hostilities.
Alhaji Ngelzarma urged herders to avoid retaliatory actions and focus on restoring trust and peace.
He also appealed to both federal and state governments to remain impartial and ensure equal treatment of all groups to foster justice and lasting peace.
Fulani leaders including Alhaji Yusuf Mohammed and Mallam Ibrahim Galma expressed their willingness to support security agencies and government efforts in restoring order and ending the cycle of violence.
During the meeting, officials from the Department of State Services (DSS) and Nigeria Police identified underage grazing and community intolerance as major conflict triggers.
They encouraged herders to adhere to lawful practices and embrace peaceful coexistence.
Reporting by Chris Nyamtu